The Book

Outline

The Book (1966) challenges the common feeling that each person is a separate, isolated self facing an outside world. Drawing on Eastern philosophy, especially the Indian tradition of Vedanta, Alan W. Watts argues that people are deeply connected to everything around them. The book invites readers to see themselves as part of a larger whole, and to find greater peace by letting go of anxiety about control.

• The common feeling of being a separate, isolated self facing an outside world is challenged throughout the book.
• Drawing on Eastern philosophy, especially Vedanta, Watts argues that people are deeply connected to everything around them.
• Readers are invited to see themselves as part of a larger whole rather than as lone individuals.
• Greater peace comes from letting go of anxiety about control.

Alan W. Watts (1915–1973) was a British-born writer and speaker who became one of the best-known interpreters of Eastern philosophy for Western audiences. Through his books, lectures, and radio talks, he introduced many readers to ideas from Zen, Taoism, and Indian thought. His other books include The Way of Zen and The Wisdom of Insecurity.